TRIBUTES have been paid to a former ‘outstanding’ teacher who died while he was on a volunteering programme in South Africa.

RGS Worcester Alumni posted on Facebook announcing the death of Mike Ridout, a former Geography teacher.

Mr Ridout had been spending time volunteering in South Africa, where he died on Tuesday (August 13).

The school was informed that Mr Ridout had been cycling on his own when he was hit from behind by a car and suffered severe head injuries.

He was taken to hospital and operated upon, however, he passed away.

Mr Ridout's sister and her husband have flown out to South Africa, where he had been living since March and was due to return to home in December.

Mr Ridout was at RGS Worcester from 1978 until he retired in the summer of 2014. He was also a member of the Senior Management Team, chairman of the Common Room for several years, as well as leading athletics and cross country.

Upon retiring, he joined the school’s Foundation Board as a trustee in 2016.

The post said: “It is with the greatest of sadness that we must share news of the untimely and tragic death of Mike Ridout.

“Throughout his 36 years of dedicated service to the pupils and to RGS itself, Mike was one of those popular teachers who inspired respect, admiration and friendship from his colleagues, his pupils and their families.

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“Our thoughts are with everyone who knew Mike, his family and his friends. It is so very sad to lose a member of the RGS community and in such tragic circumstances. We know Mike kept in touch with his former colleagues and a number of former pupils and we will share further information about Mike’s funeral when we receive the details.”

Many people have shown their condolences and commented on the post.

Chris Haywood said: “Awful. How tragic. He was a fantastic teacher that inspired my love of geography. Always one of my favourite teachers. Very sad.”

Andy Stephens said: “What tragic news. He was an outstanding teacher and a top man. My thoughts and condolences to all his family and friends.”

Reuben Walker said: “Absolute hero. Amazing fun on ski trips and a great teacher who inspired me to study Geography at university. Always got the best out of students and had time when there was a gap in understanding. Such sad news, he’ll be sorely missed.”

Michael Condlyffe said: “Such very sad news. Mike was a fantastic teacher who always went the extra mile to help his pupils. I will always be in his debt for the help and guidance he gave me at school. A kind-hearted soul and always a pleasure to catch up with at alumni events. He will be sorely missed.”